The Commissioners have approved support of a Clean Ohio Green Space Conservation grant application for the Utzinger Bog Conservation project. The Bog, located along Jackson Pike in Jackson Township is roughly 83 acres and was created as a result of ponds that were mined as part of a seasonal peat mining operation.

The Commissioners' approved resolution states the Board’s support for the Appalachia Ohio Alliance (AOA) to acquire and manage the site as a passive park conservation/nature preserve that will protect the bog and wetland areas and allow for a return of the agricultural fields to a native prairie grasslands or successional forest.

On March 17, the Commissioners approved $50,000 for a partnership with the Columbus Urban League for the My Brother’s Closet program that provides free professional attire to men seeking to overcome chronic unemployment. This is the second year for Franklin County support.

The Columbus Urban League accepts donations of men’s professional clothing – suits, pants, shirts, socks, belts and shoes to be used as part of the program. Please contact the Boutique Manager, Alex Carey, at 614-257-6300 ext. 322 if you have any items you would like to donate.

Franklin County is proud to offer two community gardens: the International Harvest Garden, located at 1919 Frank Road; and the Mound Street Community Garden, located at 50 E. Mound St. in the heart of downtown Columbus.

These gardens allow gardeners togrow their own fruits and vegetables, mingle with and learn from other gardeners and be a part of a growing national movement toward making healthy and organically grown food available for all.

Infrastructure Works Program to Infuse Millions into Local Communities

Through its new Infrastructure Works program, Franklin County will make $3.5 million available annually for the next 4-5 years, resulting in a capital infusion of nearly $20 million into cities, villages and townships within Franklin County.

Beginning early next year, below market rate loans will be available for the construction or rehabilitation of local infrastructure projects which will result in significant economic growth, job creation and generate new private capital investment in Franklin County.

Eligible projects include transportation, energy, water and telecommunications infrastructure.